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If you’ve ever seen those iconic photos of fluffy Japanese macaques soaking in steamy natural hot springs with snowflakes drifting through the air—you’ve probably already come across Jigokudani Yaen-Koen (Snow Monkey Park in Japan). And yes, it really is as magical in real life as it looks in the photos. In this guide, we’re going to take you step-by-step through everything you need to know to plan your own visit to the world-famous Snow Monkey Park in 2025. We’ll cover the best way to get there from Tokyo, how much it costs, when to go, and what to expect once you arrive.
We loved visiting the Snow Monkey park in Japan! It may be busy, it may be iconic, it may be intense at times. Yet it was genuinely one of the highlights of our Japan trip. So, if you’re planning a winter trip to Japan or looking for a unique wildlife experience, this should definitely be on your list.
Looking for a fun, affordable and simple day trip from Tokyo? Book it on KLOOK: The Best Snow Monkey tour from Tokyo
What is Jigokudani Monkey Park?
Jigokudani Yaen-Koen is a nature park in the mountains of Nagano prefecture, famous for its population of wild Japanese macaques—commonly called snow monkeys. What makes this place unique is that during the cold winter months, the monkeys come down from the cliffs and forests to warm themselves in the hot spring baths, just like humans. Oddly enough the monkeys even seem to arrive around opening time, it’s as if they actually know the opening hours and abide by the rules. They are Japanese Monkeys after all!
Actually, just a quick insight – they may be punctual, but they are not always civil. So do be careful to give them space. The monkeys can roam freely and as you would expect crowds of tourists may surround them. Keep a safe distance and give them space. Also watch out for the occasional Monkey fight – from time to time the scrap with each other, again remember to keep a safe distance. A viral video of a monkey fight isn’t worth being caught in that fight!
This is one of the only places in the world where you can see wild monkeys relaxing in natural hot springs, and because they’re not caged or trained, the entire experience feels raw, natural, and surprisingly peaceful. The monkeys roam freely around the valley, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch them grooming, playing, or sitting quietly with their eyes closed in total bliss (who wouldn’t be in bliss in a mountain hot spring?!).
When to Visit?
The park is open year-round, and each season offers a slightly different experience. Winter is by far the most iconic time to go—think snow-covered trees, steamy pools, and monkeys huddled together like furry little old men in a mountain onsen. If you’re hoping to catch those classic photos of monkeys bathing in the snow, the best time to visit is between December and early March.
That said, we wouldn’t rule out visiting in spring or autumn. You might not get the snow, but you’ll still see the monkeys up close, and the surrounding forests are beautiful in their own right. Summer tends to be the quietest time of year, and while the monkeys are less likely to jump in the hot springs (it’s warm enough already!), they’re still around the park and active. During the warmer months there is also less steam visible above the water (this is what gives you those iconic shots).
Top tip: We visited in April and it was slightly too warm for the monkeys to jump in the water.
Prices and Opening Hours
The park remains very affordable, and you don’t need to book in advance unless you’re visiting with a large group.
- Adults: ¥800
- Children (ages 6–17): ¥400
- Opening hours (Winter, November–March): 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Opening hours (Summer, April–October): 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
It’s worth noting that last entry is about 30 minutes before closing, and hours can vary slightly depending on weather conditions. We recommend checking the official website just before your visit to confirm the latest information.
By the way Japan can be very cheap if you do things independently and you know how. Learn how to travel Japan on a small budget.
How to Get There from Tokyo
The journey to Jigokudani Monkey Park from Tokyo might seem like a bit of a trek, but it’s absolutely doable as a day trip—especially if you get an early start. It’s also a really enjoyable journey, passing through the countryside and into the Japanese Alps. You’re aiming for Yudanaka town – you can either stay they over night or take a day trip.
The quickest and most efficient route goes like this:
First, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station (or Ueno Station) to Nagano Station. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the train, and it’s fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass, which is a big win if you’re travelling around Japan on the JR network.
From Nagano Station, you’ve got two main options:
1. Nagaden Express Bus – This is the most direct option. The bus departs from the east exit of Nagano Station and takes you all the way to Snow Monkey Park Bus Stop near Kanbayashi Onsen. From the bus stop, it’s about a 30–40 minute walk to the park entrance. The bus journey takes around 45 minutes and costs roughly ¥1,400 one-way. This part is not covered by the JR Pass.
2. Nagano Dentetsu Line + Local Bus – Alternatively, you can take the Nagano Dentetsu train from Nagano Station to Yudanaka Station (around 45 minutes, ¥1,190), then hop on a local bus or taxi to Kanbayashi Onsen (roughly 15 minutes, around ¥310). This route gives you a bit more flexibility, but it’s slightly more effort. Again, the Dentetsu train and local bus are not covered by the JR Pass.
Whichever route you choose, the total journey time from Tokyo to the park is usually around 2.5 to 3 hours. If you’re up for a long day, a round trip from Tokyo is possible—but many people choose to stay overnight in Yudanaka, Shibu Onsen, or Nagano city to enjoy the experience at a slower pace.
What to Expect When You Arrive
From the main road at Kanbayashi Onsen, you’ll start with a scenic walk through the forest trail to reach the park itself. The trail is about 1.6 km (just under a mile) and takes 30 to 40 minutes, depending on your pace and the weather. In winter, the trail is often snow-covered and can get icy in places, so sturdy shoes or boots are a must. The trail is easy to follow and well signed – so don’t worry about getting lost.
The walk through the pine forest is part of the experience. It’s peaceful, quiet, and gives you a real sense of the mountain landscape that the monkeys call home. There are occasional signs and a visitor center at the entrance where you can grab a coffee, use the restroom, and read a little more about the park’s history.
Once inside the park, you’ll find a large open area with natural hot spring pools where the monkeys gather. There are only a few fences (around the hot spring itself), so you really are standing just a couple of feet away from the animals at times. It’s a truly up-close encounter, and because the monkeys are so used to visitors, they usually ignore you completely—which makes it easy to observe and photograph them behaving naturally.
Top Tips for Visiting
- Photo tip: Arrive early and find your space at the side of the hotspring. Watch, observe, wait and be patient. The amazing iconic photos will happen if you watch and give it time.
- Footwear matters – Especially in winter, the trail can be muddy or icy. Decent shoes or hiking boots will make the walk safer and more enjoyable.
- Dress in layers – The area gets cold in winter (especially in the mornings), but the walk might warm you up, so layers are ideal.
- Arrive early – If you want quieter paths and better photo opportunities, we recommend arriving when the park opens.
- Respect the wildlife – Don’t feed the monkeys, don’t touch them, and try not to stare them down (they can be sensitive to eye contact).
- Bring cash – The park entry fee and some small shops in the area only accept cash, so it’s handy to have a bit of yen with you.
- Toilets and snacks – There are toilets and a visitor building near the entrance, but limited food options once you’re on the trail.
Where to Stay Nearby
This is what a typical room in Yamonachi town looks like – this is where we actually stayed…
If you have the time we highly recommend a stay in Yudanaka town – it is genuinely beautiful – with affordable accommodation, tasty food, and small onsens. It’s a lovely way to wind down after a day of walking and wildlife-watching. Staying overnight also means you can visit the park early before the main crowds arrive or even go again the next morning.
One of the BEST Ryokans in the area is called Andaikan Ryokan – it is super beautiful – very traditional – it has it’s own Onsen AND it’s great value for money. It’s also not too far from the entrance of the snow monkey park – so it really is one of the best options around!
